Quake Champions Is Dropping Free-to-Play and Becoming a Paid Game

Quake Champions is moving away from its free-to-play model and will become a paid game, but existing players won’t have to purchase it again.

Bethesda is changing how the arena shooter is sold and monetized, with the new version giving players access to all Champions and cosmetic content without requiring them to purchase in-game currency.

What’s Changing With Quake Champions?

Under the updated model, players will get access to the game’s roster of Champions and cosmetic content as part of the package rather than relying on the existing free-to-play monetization system.

Existing Quake Champions players will retain access, meaning those who already have the game won’t suddenly be required to pay for it when the transition takes place.

Microsoft Store Version Is Being Retired

As part of the changes, the Microsoft Store version of Quake Champions is being discontinued.

Players currently using that version will have the opportunity to transfer to the Steam version, provided they meet Bethesda’s conditions for the migration.

A Major Change for Quake Champions

Quake Champions originally launched in Early Access in 2017 before receiving its full release in 2022. The game has operated as a free-to-play title for years, making the switch to a traditional paid model a significant change to how the game is distributed.

For new players, Quake Champions will now require an upfront purchase, while existing players can continue playing without having to buy the game again.

The upside of the new approach is that players will be able to access Champions and cosmetic content without purchasing additional in-game currency, moving the game away from its previous free-to-play progression and monetization structure.

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